Government contractors will need to comply with the Department of Defense’s (DoD) new Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program and its standards to maintain existing contracts and win new ones once the DoD rules are finalized.
If you are preparing to get CMMC certification, a readiness assessment may be a key tool, to help you succeed.
CMMC requirements for federal government contractors
The date for implementation is uncertain, however, in December 2023, the final CMMC program draft rule was issued, and compliance is expected to begin as soon as early 2025.
Whenever implementation begins, contractors will need a DoD-approved CMMC contract clause in your agreements for the DoD’s new product and service acquisitions.
There are different levels of CMMC certification, and you’ll have to keep your certification at that level throughout the contract’s life.
It is important to remember that the CMMC is based on a maturity model and that it’s vital that you put cybersecurity processes and controls in place to meet the CMMC well ahead of expected final rule implementation.
HORNE is helping companies do the readiness work now, and we’re finding that companies have a lot of remediation to do. That could take a while. We want to make sure no one is missing out on contracts due to lack of CMMC compliance.
The CMMC standard is already showing up in requests for proposals (RFP) as a bonus. Companies can benefit from CMMC certification as they respond to RFPs and compete for DoD contracts.
The CMMC standard affects many organizations, from major weapons manufacturers to construction companies that work at military bases.
Is CMMC required for your business?
If you fulfill contracts for the DoD, you should find out now whether CMMC certification is a mandate for your business. CMMC certification counts on your adherence to the highest standards for cybersecurity controls, policies and procedures.
So, acquiring CMMC certification protects the revenues you make from DoD contracts and helps to ensures that you are equipped for potential attacks.
Planning ahead
As an approved CMMC Third-Party Assessor Organization™ and a CMMC-registered practitioner organization (CMMC RPO), HORNE advises and consults with companies preparing to meet the CMMC standard. With penetration tests, enterprise risk assessments and consultations you can get CMMC certified.
Contact us today to find out how HORNE can help with your CMMC requirements.
